NYC takes first step in allowing driverless cars on city streets
NEW YORK (PIX11) – Driverless cars are one step closer to hitting city streets.
Mayor Eric Adams on Thursday released requirements for a new permit program that would test the use of autonomous vehicles in New York City.
"Autonomous vehicles aren't just coming, they're here — they've been successfully operating across the country for years,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “We are doing our due diligence to get ahead of the AV revolution and ensure that if AVs are coming, they do so within a framework that benefits New Yorkers.”
The New York City Department of Transportation will be overseeing the testing permit program. Companies interested in applying to the test program may apply here.
Driverless cars won’t hit the street overnight. As of right now, state law requires an operator to be present and ready to control the vehicle while AV technology is in operation.
The DOT stated that it wants to ensure that AV testing does not impede traffic flow, pedestrian-cyclist movement, or emergency response.
The NYC DOT will work with each applicant throughout the application process to:
- Understand the competencies of their AV technology
- Review the scope of their proposed testing plan
- Review their test vehicle operator training program
- Discuss their company's approach to safety, particularly as demonstrated through previous urban testing experience.
“New York City leads the nation in responsible innovation, and we’re continuing to do so with this new autonomous vehicle program,” said Adams. “This technology is coming whether we like it or not, so we’re going to make sure that we get it right.”
Driverless cars have already been used in other major cities, such as San Francisco and Los Angeles, but not without speed bumps.
Last October, a vehicle operated by Cruise, a driverless ride-hailing service owned by General Motors, dragged a pedestrian who was hit by another car operated by a human for 20 feet before coming to a stop.
California regulators suspended Cruise's state license after the incident. Other companies like Waymo's robotaxis haven't been involved in any major accidents so far.
It remains unclear if Waymo or other companies will be applying for New York City’s test program.
This story comprises reporting from The Associated Press.
Matthew Euzarraga is a multimedia journalist from El Paso, Texas. He has covered local news and LGBTQIA topics in the New York City Metro area since 2021. He joined the PIX11 Digital team in 2023. You can see more of his work here.